Heisler Park and the events gazebo nearby contribute to the romantic setting around the restaurant, perfect for cliff-side walks or special ceremonies like weddings.

The menu features modern dishes of Mexican and Californian influence.

Fine dining in a casual atmosphere that does not require a suit or tie.

Claim to fame: "It's modern, simple, classic," sais general manager Fouad Ziady of the breath-taking view and the interior design at Las Brisas. Set directly on a cliff over the beach, the restaurant takes in coastal scenery to be enjoyed from inside the restaurant or on the patio, complete with fresh air and the sun.

But it's not just the view or the rose garden that sets the romantic mood for Las Brisas – local shops and galleries also contribute to the dining experience. "To complete your view and to complete your experience, you need the good service and the good food," Ziady said, emphasizing the hospitality that the Las Brisas staff takes pride in providing.

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Las Brisas was originally called the Victor Hugo Inn when it was opened in 1938. Strongly inspired by its geography, Las Brisas specializes in Mexican Riviera cuisine and seafood. Its most popular dish is mariscos en banderilla, a seafood brochette with swordfish, lobster, shrimp and scallops Like its menu, Las Brisas clientele is diverse. "We call ourselves the United Nations ...we get people from all over the world and ... the United States," Ziady said.

Did you know? More than 300,000 diners walk through the front door each year. About 60 percent of the restaurant's clientele in the summer are tourists.

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